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Levels

Qualification Levels Explained

Confused by all the numbers and codes? Don’t worry – we’ll help you understand what they all mean.

All our courses are assigned a level, starting at entry level, all the way up to level 7. Here’s a complete list of the levels explained, so you know exactly what qualifications you need to study your course

E – Entry Level

Anyone can study at entry level, whatever grades you have. As long as you have a genuine interest in the course and a desire to increase your skills in the subject, go for it!

1 – Foundation Level

If you want to increase your skills in a particular area, a level 1 course is for you. It will let you build on what you’ve already learnt and work your way up.

2 – Intermediate (equivalent to a GCSE)

To step it up a gear and study level 2 courses, you’ll need some knowledge or experience of the subject and one of the following to get you started:

  • four GCSEs at grade 3-1 (D-F)including English and maths
  • a BTEC foundation diploma in a related subject
  • an NVQ level 1/technical certificate in a related subject
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.
3 – Advanced (equivalent to an A Level)

Our level 3 courses cover more in-depth skills and you’ll require one of the following to push yourself beyond your limits:

  • four or five GCSEs at grade 9-4 (A*-C), including English and maths
  • a BTEC first diploma in a related subject
  • an NVQ level 2/technical certificate in a related subject
  • successful completion of an Apprenticeship programme
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.
4, 5, 6, 7 – Higher

You’ll probably have a lot of experience in your subject if you want to take yourself to the next level. To study a level 4, 5, 6 or 7 course means you need one of the following:

  • 60-120 UCAS tariff points
  • a BTEC national award in a related subject
  • an NVQ level 3 in a related subject
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

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